Constitution Day is an American federal observance that commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787. In 2004, Congress mandated that educational institutions receiving federal funding provide education about the Constitution on Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, which is observed nationally on September 17th.
Did you know? 2023 is the 100th anniversary of the amendment that would later be known at the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). It was initiated at a 1923 convention held to celebrate the recent ratification of the 19th Amendment (which secured women the right to vote) and to begin drafting a new amendment for equal rights for women. For more information see:
- Unratified Amendments: The Equal Rights Amendment (Pieces of History Blog, U.S. National Archives, 4/21/20)
- Latest Push to Revive the Equal Rights Amendment Fails in Senate (Associated Press, 4/27/23) (Gustavus login needed)
- The Centennial of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA): Origins and Early Debates (Unfolding History Blog, Library of Congress, 7/27/23)
Feel free to stop by the library and visit our Constitution Day book display on the main floor – you can even pick up a FREE pocket copy of the U.S. Constitution! You can also consult the library’s online Constitution Day guide for more information.
Looking for more information? Ask Us!